Tools used: Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, PTC Creo Parametric, Rapid Prototyping (3D Printing)

See website: https://www.chooseblocks.com

I was involved in the Blocks project early on in its industrial design phase as a part time engineer/consultant. I was brought on along with a colleague in the initial design phase of the watch body, as well as the electromechanical connector between modules.

The concept of the watch is to provide a fully functioning smartwatch as the main body of the watch, and instead of having a simple leather or plastic band, using 'smart' modules which link up and provide various functions. At launch, these functions are: GPS, extra battery, pulse sensor, humidity/temperature/altitude sensor, programmable button and a flashlight.

Designing a connector which meets multiple criteria constituted the bulk of my work. Key criteria included:
- Tensile strength
- Flexibility
- Maintaining good electrical contact throughout range
- User friendliness in connecting and disconnecting
- Watertightness

A number of unique designs were drafted, and prototyped with the aid of rapid prototyping. Testing was conducted and each design was evaluated against the original criteria to determine suitability.

The engagement ended with a number of prototype designs presented to the team.

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